Just fresh off 2025 AFCON qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda, Wilfred Ndidi has pulled off a surprise in Leicester City’s 2-2 draw against Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park—two assists to his name.

The Nigerian international, who’s built a reputation as one of the Premier League’s most reliable defensive midfielders, stepped into the spotlight as a playmaker, bagging two assists in a performance that screamed versatility, Footballrover reports.

Yet, despite his brilliance, Leicester had to settle for a share of the spoils as a late Crystal Palace resurgence denied them their first league win of the season.

A New Role for Ndidi

Playing in an unfamiliar role as a central attacking midfielder (CAM), Ndidi looked every bit the part of a creative magician.

This is how we're looking 👀#CRYLEI pic.twitter.com/PUhtltgm7b

— Leicester City (@LCFC) September 14, 2024

From breaking up play to setting Leicester’s forwards in motion, he was the key man in the Foxes’ attacking play and well-deserved man of the match award.

His efforts started paying off when he capitalised on a sloppy giveaway in midfield, dispossessing Adam Wharton before sending Jamie Vardy through on goal.

Drop a 🐐 for this man 👇 pic.twitter.com/Im8TEzitAg

— Leicester City (@LCFC) September 14, 2024

Vardy, as lethal as ever, darted past Palace goalkeeper Dean Henderson and calmly slotted home to give Leicester a 1-0 lead.

For a player known more for his grit and determination, this was a masterclass in vision and execution. But Ndidi wasn’t done. He continued to disrupt Palace’s midfield, winning duels and applying pressure in the heart of the pitch.

The Double Assist Delight

Ndidi’s influence on the game reached new heights just after the halftime break.

With Leicester looking to stretch their lead, the ball fell kindly to him in the Palace box following a miscue from Nathaniel Clyne.

Rather than taking a shot, the unselfish Super Eagles star picked out Stephy Mavididi with a pinpoint pass. Mavididi didn’t need a second thought, as he volleyed home to make it 2-0 for Leicester.

What a start to the second half!

Justin's cross, poor defending and Ndidi's able to tee up Mavididi – who slams home from eight yards! ⚽ 💥#CRYLEI https://t.co/9XeEn51OmO

— Leicester City (@LCFC) September 14, 2024

Two assists, both moments of brilliance, capped off Ndidi’s man-of-the-match performance.

Ndidi’s stats on the night painted a picture of a player fully embracing his expanded role: 4 chances created, 8 duels won, 3 tackles, 2 successful dribbles, and 2 fouls won.

He was everywhere, covering ground and making things happen in the final third.

Palace’s Response

But just as Leicester began to dream of a first Premier League victory, Crystal Palace quickly found a way back.

Jean-Philippe Mateta reduced the deficit just 90 seconds after Mavididi’s goal, poking home from a Tyrick Mitchell cross.

The home side’s belief surged, and debutant Eddie Nketiah nearly drew them level, only for his effort to roll agonisingly wide.

The pressure was mounting on Leicester, and despite Ndidi’s stellar contributions, the Foxes’ frail defence once again showed cracks.

Ndidi was substituted for Hamza Choudhury with 14 minutes left, but Leicester’s defensive woes persisted.

Deep into stoppage time, a clumsy challenge from Conor Coady on Ismaïla Sarr gifted Palace a lifeline. Mateta stepped up to coolly dispatch the penalty, sealing a dramatic 2-2 draw for the hosts.

It finishes level 🤝#CPFC // #CRYLEI pic.twitter.com/MvfHGNRacj

— Crystal Palace F.C. (@CPFC) September 14, 2024

A Point to Prove for Leicester

Though Leicester left Selhurst Park with just a point, the game highlighted a significant shift in Ndidi’s game.

Traditionally the player relied upon to break up opposition attacks, Ndidi’s new attacking responsibility could open up fresh tactical options for Leicester.

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Last Updated on September 14, 2024 6:23 pm by Sir Kris